The best outcomes towards living a good life for people with FASD depends on tailored intervention and management of the behavioural symptoms of FASD starting as early as possible, and this is dependent on a correct diagnosis. But there are further reasons that we encourage diagnosis if possible:

• For tamariki and whānau – it can be helpful to understand that difficulties are brain-based, and not the result of bad parenting or naughtiness. It’s necessary to gain access to support services, mitigate secondary challenges and have generally better outcomes long-term. It can also contribute to better understanding of the risks of alcohol in pregnancy and help break the intergenerational cycle of FASD.
  
  
• For schools and communities – diagnosis  is helpful in gaining an understanding of how FASD impacts a child’s learning. More specifically it means educators can design and implement individual educational interventions which can contribute to lifelong positive outcomes; in communities it raises awareness around alcohol in pregnancy and the need for understanding and support for neurodiversity.